Do Sunglasses Need to be UV-rated?

Sunglasses are much more than a fashion statement. They can help protect your eyesight, reduce the chances of developing macular degeneration, and help keep you safe from poor vision due to the sun’s glare. There are lots of sunglasses available, so the question is, do you have to buy sunglasses that are UV-rated, or will cheaper sunglasses suffice?

How UV-rated Sunglasses Protect Vision

The sun emits UV (ultraviolet rays) rays, which are harmful to the eyes. Ultraviolet rays are invisible to the naked eye, yet pose a threat to your eyesight in the form of cataracts, macular degeneration, photokeratitis, and more. UV-rated sunglasses block this light, keeping it from reaching your eyes.

How to Choose Sunglasses

Sunglasses will carry a sticker or label indicating whether they are UV-rated. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays for optimal protection. If you buy your sunglasses in Champaign, IL, at your optometrist’s office, you can be sure of getting premium lenses that will protect your eyes from damage. You can also get prescription sunglasses that offer the additional benefit of vision correction.

Note that if you are buying sunglasses elsewhere, don’t assume they’re UV-rated just because they have dark lenses. UV protection in lenses requires a special coating. Without it, dark lenses may look good, but they won’t give your eyes any more protection than if you didn’t wear sunglasses at all.

Added Benefits of UV-rated Sunglasses

Finally, there’s the added benefit of choosing UV-rated sunglasses. These special lenses will not only offer protection to your eyes; they also keep damaging UV rays from reaching the delicate skin around your eyes where wrinkles often appear.

To shop for lenses today, book an appointment or come on into your Champaign, IL optometrist office and see the wide range of options available.